It wants in.|Oct. 23, 2022|93 Min.
Genre: 4K-2160p;Horror;Thriller
Description: Twelve years ago, director Daniel Stamm was seen by some as reviving a subgenre with his film “The Last Exorcism.” While not a classic, it was taken seriously and benefited from a strong cast, including the talented Ashley Bell. After the less successful “13 Sins” in 2014, Stamm focused on episodic TV work. Now, eight years later, he returns to familiar territory with his latest film.
“Prey for the Devil” may not generate the same enthusiasm as Stamm’s earlier work, despite its focus on a female exorcist—a concept not entirely new, as seen in last year’s “The Old Ways.” Nonetheless, the film offers decent entertainment as a possession thriller, even if it lacks lasting impact or genuine scares.
With limited horror competition in theaters, the film is likely to attract viewers seeking standard frights during Halloween. The story begins with on-screen text explaining that a rise in global demonic possession cases has led the Catholic Church to establish a “School of Exorcism” in Boston. Among its students is Sister Ann, played by Jacqueline Byers, who has transferred from a convent as the only female trainee. Despite Church doctrine prohibiting women from performing exorcisms, Sister Ann feels a strong calling, believing her late mother’s violent behavior was caused by literal demons rather than her diagnosed schizophrenia.
Sister Ann challenges the academy’s restrictions, drawing disapproval from Sister Euphemia, played by Lisa Palfrey, but she persists in her mission. The film explores her journey as she pushes against institutional barriers to fulfill her purpose.
Cast director: Daniel Stamm
Cast actor: Jacqueline Byers, Colin Salmon, Christian Navarro, Lisa Palfrey, Nicholas Ralph, Ben Cross, Virginia Madsen, Tom Forbes, Velizar Binev, Owen Davis
Original name: Prey for the Devil